Although Chinese provided a vital labour source and other essential services in nineteenth century Western Australia, their presence was barely tolerated. They were often treated with suspicion, and in extreme cases with total disregard. This did not deter the early Chinese community.

           Chinese also contributed to many local charities such as the Blind Institute, Children’s Hospital and the Temperance Society. During the Second World War there was strong support for the Queen’s Contest to raise funds for the war effort. Each ethnic group had a representative and the most money raised resulted in the representative being crowned the winner. A couple of these contests saw intense, but friendly rivalry between the Greek and Chinese communities in a bid to win the event. 

            The Chung Wah continues to support many local charities by raising funds at their events and annual new year raffle.           

           Traditional Chinese cultural activities are encouraged at the three Chinese School campuses operated by the Association. From these activities there are now cultural troupes for lion dance and cultural dance which perform at Chinese New Year functions and other cultural events such as the Christmas pageant and the OZ Concert, which was initially organized by the Chung Wah and is now an annual  mainstream event to celebrate Australia Day.